The Brian Lehrer Show Early NYC Voting Preview
Oct 24, 2025
Samantha Maldonado, a senior reporter for THE CITY, dives into the NYC mayoral race and the complexities surrounding it. She analyzes the implications of Eric Adams’s surprise endorsement of Cuomo and Mamdani's unique approach to tackling Islamophobia. The conversation also highlights critical down-ballot races voters should watch during early voting. With concerns about public safety and policy tensions between candidates, Samantha offers insightful takes on the evolving political landscape.
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Cuomo's Radio Reaction Fueled Islamophobia Concerns
- Andrew Cuomo's laughter at a suggestion Mamdani would 'cheer another 9-11' sparked accusations of Islamophobia and required campaign damage control.
- Prominent Democrats called the insinuation beyond disgusting and called out the rhetoric's danger to Muslim New Yorkers.
Mamdani Frames Controversy As Islamophobia
- Zamir Mamdani framed the controversy as a broader issue of Islamophobia and planned a response at a Bronx mosque.
- His staunch pro-Palestinian stance predates his campaign and complicates support from mainstream Democrats.
Adams Endorsement Was Politically Calculated
- Eric Adams' endorsement of Cuomo included rhetoric about 'Islamic extremism' in Europe that reporters called a racist dog whistle.
- Cuomo accepted the endorsement to broaden his coalition despite Adams' low popularity.